The Bearcats came off an extended layoff to meet a pair of divisional rivals.
The Thursday game in Summerside had top billing in the MHL, for good reason. The Capitals and Bearcats have been neck-and-neck for weeks at the top of MHL play.
Truro got off to a strong start, scoring the only goal of the first period, before Summerside scored three unanswered in the second. The final one was dead even as the Capitals pulled off the 5-3 win.
Both teams had their chances, but Summerside had a bit more luck. For the Bearcats, Samuel Vachon led the way with two goals, and Austin Hoyt, with his seventh goal of the season in the closing seconds of the game, demonstrated that the Bearcats played right to the end.
That was the seventh meeting to date. Truro has won four, with the final meeting scheduled for February 19 in Truro.
Saturday, in Amherst, the Bearcats came out firing on all cylinders, scoring three unanswered in the first period enroute to a strong 4-2 win, the Bearcats’ third in their five head-to-head matchups.
The Bearcats kept the Ramblers contained in the Rambler end for long periods. From all corners, it wasn’t the best Rambler effort.
Jake Todd was the game’s First Star, picking up a Gordie Howe hat trick along the way. Newcomer, Antoine Fontaine fit well with Todd and Eli Baillargeon.
This week the Bearcats meet another pair of Divisional rivals. First up is the road trip to Pictou County, Thursday, to face the Crushers.
The Bearcats have won four of five meetings against the Crushers. They were busy at the Trade Deadline, picking up goalie George Gallant from the Capitals.
Saturday, the Bearcats are home hosting the Valley Wildcats. These teams have two wins apiece in their four previous outings. It’s a big game for both.
Standings coming into this week have Summerside on top of the MHL with 57 points. Behind the Capitals in the Eastlink South Division are Truro (57), Pictou County and Amherst with 43 points, Yarmouth (35), and Valley (22).
Positioning for playoff spots is well underway.